EP4175166A1 - System for guiding the rotation of a solar tracker - Google Patents

System for guiding the rotation of a solar tracker Download PDF

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Publication number
EP4175166A1
EP4175166A1 EP22204150.1A EP22204150A EP4175166A1 EP 4175166 A1 EP4175166 A1 EP 4175166A1 EP 22204150 A EP22204150 A EP 22204150A EP 4175166 A1 EP4175166 A1 EP 4175166A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
rotation
arch
axis
support structure
hoop
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP22204150.1A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Emilie Chartier
Jérémy AMAR
Morgan PRINTEMPS
Ludovic Quevillier
Aymeric Richard
Lucas Gillet
Emile SOULIE
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Nexans SA
Original Assignee
Nexans SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Nexans SA filed Critical Nexans SA
Publication of EP4175166A1 publication Critical patent/EP4175166A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
    • H02S20/00—Supporting structures for PV modules
    • H02S20/30—Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment
    • H02S20/32—Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S30/00—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
    • F24S30/40—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement
    • F24S30/42—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with only one rotation axis
    • F24S30/425—Horizontal axis
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S50/00—Arrangements for controlling solar heat collectors
    • F24S50/20—Arrangements for controlling solar heat collectors for tracking
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S30/00—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
    • F24S2030/10—Special components
    • F24S2030/14—Movement guiding means
    • F24S2030/145—Tracks
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S30/00—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
    • F24S2030/10—Special components
    • F24S2030/15—Bearings
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/40—Solar thermal energy, e.g. solar towers
    • Y02E10/47—Mountings or tracking

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates to the rotational guidance of solar trackers and more particularly to a rotational guidance system for a solar tracker and a solar tracker comprising said rotational guidance system.
  • EP2864719 describes a solar tracker mounted mobile in rotation on a frame and comprising a system for setting the solar tracker in rotation, said system comprising an arch mounted on the solar tracker and comprising a rack, and an endless screw cooperating with the rack in order to to perform the rotational movement.
  • a solar tracker does not include a system for guiding the solar tracker in rotation.
  • a rotational guidance of the solar tracker allows a controlled and precise rotational movement of the solar tracker.
  • the rigid trellis support structure is attached only to the two hoops which extend in a plane perpendicular to the pivot axis, so that the two hoops constitute two single supports for the support structure in a rigid trellis.
  • Each of the two hoops also rests on a cradle for guiding the corresponding hoops in rotation, and each guide cradle is fixed in the upper part of a first support on the ground.
  • the weight of the mobile device is thus distributed over only two supports on the ground, via the two support arches.
  • large dimension solar trackers typically a rigid lattice support structure having a length of between 40 and 60 meters and a width of approximately 5 meters
  • the guide cradles each comprise two guide devices each comprising, on the one hand, upper rollers, and on the other hand, lower rollers supporting the hoop.
  • the upper and lower rollers of each guide device form a rolling member and are configured to roll on a tread carried by each hoop.
  • Each hoop has on its radially outer edge lateral extensions on either side of the hoop configured to be inserted between the upper and lower support rollers so as to allow the hoop to be guided in rotation.
  • Such guidance leads to phenomena of premature wear of the hoops in the areas where the lower rollers are in contact with the hoops.
  • the entire weight of the mobile device and of the hoops is distributed over the lower rollers, which generates high contact pressures between the lower rollers and the hoops.
  • An object of the present invention is to improve the rotational guidance systems of solar trackers, in particular that described in the document EP3501098 , with the particular aim of better distributing the forces exerted on the guide devices and their rollers.
  • each guide device can be rotated about its axis of rotation by the forces exerted by the hoop on the guide devices.
  • Such guiding devices can thus be qualified as hypostatic structures.
  • guide devices which are themselves mobile in rotation around their axis of rotation makes it possible to better distribute the forces on the guide devices, in particular on the rollers of the guide devices.
  • the positioning of the guide device, and in particular of the rollers in contact with the arch is optimized which allows a pressure of the hoop which is substantially uniformly distributed over each of the guide devices, in particular over each of the rollers of the guide devices. This can make it possible to limit the contact pressure of the arch on the rollers, and therefore to limit the wear of the arch resulting from the contact between the arch and the rollers.
  • the guide devices are each mobile in rotation around an axis of rotation extending in the direction of the axis of rotation of the arch makes it possible to maintain in contact with the arch the rollers of each device of guidance.
  • each guide device makes it possible to guarantee that each roller of the guide devices is in contact with the arch.
  • a hyperstatic guide device i.e. which is not mobile in rotation, would not allow the support of the arch on each of the rollers of the guide devices.
  • the axis of rotation of the arch is preferably identical to that of the solar tracker.
  • the hoop preferably extends in a plane perpendicular to its axis of rotation.
  • the hoop may comprise a curved section, preferably in the shape of a semicircle.
  • the diameter of the arch can be between 1.8 and 2.5 meters, and in particular be equal to about 2.2 meters.
  • the arch can be mounted on the solar tracker at least by its ends.
  • the hoop may include a tread and the roller(s) of each guide device may be configured to come into contact with the tread of the hoop.
  • the system according to the invention can make it possible to limit the wear of the tread of the arch resulting from the contact between the rollers and the tread of the arch.
  • each guide device around its axis of rotation can make it possible to keep the roller or rollers of each guide device in contact with the tread of the arch.
  • the tread is preferably located on a radially outer edge of the hoop.
  • the rollers are preferably cylindrical.
  • the rollers may have an elongated shape along their axis of rotation. They may have a width substantially equal to that of the tread of the hoop, for example a width of between 80 and 110 mm. An elongated shape makes it possible to increase the contact surface between the roller and the arch and therefore to reduce the contact pressure of the arch on the roller.
  • the rollers may for example have an internal diameter of between 18 and 30 mm and an external diameter of between 50 and 100 mm.
  • the rollers may include a tread surface configured to come into contact with the tread of the hoop.
  • the rollers can be made entirely of a composite material and/or based on polymers, for example a material based on plastic, including their running surfaces.
  • the rollers are preferably mounted free to rotate around their axis of rotation.
  • the axes of rotation of the rollers of each guide device are preferably strictly parallel.
  • the distance between the axes of rotation of the rollers of each guide device can be between 150 and 200 mm.
  • the guide devices are arranged in series along the arch.
  • the guide devices are preferably aligned relative to each other along the axis of an axis included in the plane in which the hoop extends.
  • the distance between the axes of rotation of the guide devices can be between 800 and 1000 mm.
  • the guide devices are each preferably mounted free to rotate about their axis of rotation.
  • the guide devices can be mounted, preferably at their axis of rotation, on the same support structure extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation of the arch. This can make it possible to align the guide devices relative to each other so as to allow the rotational guidance of the arch.
  • the support structure is for example a bar or a tube, preferably rectilinear and/or of circular section.
  • the length of the supporting structure can be from 1000 to 1300 mm.
  • the support structure may be mountable to an upper portion of a ground support structure.
  • the ground support structure may comprise one or more driven, drilled or screwed piles, in particular two driven, drilled or screwed piles, or a concrete block.
  • it comprises an intermediate frame which rests on one or more driven piles, in particular on two driven piles, or on a concrete block.
  • the support structure is preferably sufficiently rigid to withstand the forces of the solar tracker.
  • the support structure is rotatable around its axis of extension which is perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation of the hoop.
  • the rotation of the support structure around its axis of extension can make it possible to compensate for the static irregularities of the ground, and in particular allow the installation of the solar tracker on a sloping ground. This can thus allow precise angular orientation of the sun tracker around an axis of rotation extending in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the arch.
  • the support structure can be mounted free to rotate around its extension axis.
  • the support structure is fixed at each of its ends to the ground support structure by a clamp.
  • the tightening of the collar is such that it allows the support structure to rotate freely about its axis of extension.
  • the guide devices may each comprise at least two lateral stops located on either side of the arch and the arch may comprise lateral extensions on either side of the arch arranged between the lateral stops and the rollers guiding devices.
  • the lateral extensions of the arch are thus sandwiched between the lateral stops and the rollers of the guide devices.
  • the presence of the side stops can prevent the lifting of the arch, for example caused by the force of the wind, because the lateral extensions of the hoop then come to bear against the lateral stops of the guide devices.
  • the lateral extensions of the arch can come to slide against the lateral stops of the guide devices.
  • the lateral stops are preferably made of a composite material and/or based on polymers, for example a material based on plastic.
  • the lateral stops are preferably located facing the sides of the hoop.
  • the lateral extensions preferably extend over at least more than half, in particular over at least more than three-quarters, or even over substantially the entire length of the hoop.
  • the lateral extensions can be thin, for example between 3 and 5 mm, or even thicker, for example between 5 and 8 mm.
  • the lateral extensions can be inserted in the extension of the radially outer edge of the hoop or at the level of the flanks of the hoop.
  • each guide device may each comprise at least one axial guide roller mobile in rotation around an axis of rotation extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation of the arch and configured to come into contact with the sides of the arch.
  • the presence of axial guide rollers can make it possible to guide the arch axially so as to keep it centered between the two lateral stops of each guide device.
  • these axial guide rollers can make it possible to take up the axial forces of the solar tracker, in particular when the solar tracker is installed on a slope.
  • the axial guide rollers of the side stops are preferably mounted to rotate freely.
  • the guide devices can each be movable in translation along their axis of rotation. This can make it possible to compensate for the thermal expansion of the solar tracker which can take place for example between winter and summer. This translational movement of the guiding device therefore makes it possible to limit the forces linked to the thermal expansion of the solar tracker.
  • the guide devices can each be movable in translation in both directions with respect to the axis of extension of the support structure.
  • the translation movement of each of the guide devices is preferably guided along their axis of rotation.
  • the guide devices can each comprise around their axis of rotation a pair of plain bearings, in particular with collars.
  • plain bearings can facilitate the translation and rotation of the guiding devices.
  • the plain bearings are preferably in a composite material and/or based on polymers, in particular in a plastic-based material.
  • the plain bearings can be entirely based on polymers or be made of a metallic material, in particular bronze, which is coated with a layer based on polymers. This can make it possible to avoid the use of grease while ensuring high mechanical stability and a limited coefficient of friction.
  • the amplitude of the translation movement of each of the guide devices along their axis of rotation can be between 10 and 70 mm, preferably between 20 and 60 mm.
  • the solar tracker comprises at least two rotation guidance systems as defined above and each arch is mounted on the support structure so as to cause the support structure to rotate around the axis of rotation of the arches.
  • the table is preferably equipped with a plurality of solar panels in the same plane.
  • the support structure is preferably sufficiently rigid to support the table.
  • the one or more poles can be configured to support the support structure.
  • the arch or arches constitute the only support or supports for the support structure.
  • the solar tracker may further comprise a drive system configured to drive the arch in rotation around its axis of rotation.
  • the hoops preferably have identical axes of rotation and are preferably located in parallel planes.
  • Another subject of the present invention is a solar field comprising a plurality of solar trackers as defined above.
  • At least some solar trackers can be arranged parallel to each other, in particular in the North/South direction.
  • the rotation guidance system 1 represented on the figure 1 comprises a hoop 2 mountable on a solar tracker (not shown) and mobile in rotation around an axis of rotation 100 and two guide devices 3 configured to guide the hoop 2 in rotation around its axis of rotation 100.
  • the hoop 2 is configured to cooperate with two guide devices 3.
  • the guide devices 3 each comprise at least two rollers 4 each movable in rotation around an axis of rotation 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d extending in the direction of the axis of rotation 100 of the arch 2 and configured to come into contact with and support the arch 2.
  • rollers 4 are mounted free to rotate.
  • the guide devices 3 are each mobile in rotation about an axis of rotation 300a, 300b extending in the direction of the axis of rotation 100 of the arch 2.
  • each guide device 3 can be driven in spin around its axis of rotation 300a, 300b by the arch 2 so as to allow the contact of each roller 4 of each guide device 3 with the arch 2.
  • the guide devices 3 are mounted free to rotate.
  • the guide devices 3 are mounted on the same support structure 5 extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation 100 of the arch 2.
  • the support structure 5 is therefore configured to support the guide devices 3 and the arch 2.
  • the support structure 5 can be mounted on an upper part of a ground support structure 6.
  • the arch 2 is preferably mountable at least at each of its ends to the frame of the solar tracker. It can thus constitute a single support for the solar tracker.
  • the arch preferably forms an arc-of-circle, in particular a semi-circle, the center of which is on the axis of rotation 100 of the arch 2.
  • Each guide device 3 comprises two mounting plates 7, preferably parallel to each other, located on either side of the arch 2, between which the rollers 4 are mounted so as to be able to rotate around their respective axes of rotation 200a, 200b, 200c and 200d.
  • the rollers 4 are located at the level of the upper part of the guide devices 3.
  • the rollers 4 are configured to come into contact with a tread 8 of the arch 2 which is located on a radially outer edge of the arch 2 and to support the arch 2.
  • the rollers 4 can be driven in rotation around their respective axes of rotation 200a, 200b, 200c and 200d by the rotation of the arch 2 around its axis of rotation 100.
  • the support structure 5 on which the guide devices 3 rest is located at the level of the lower part of the guide devices 3.
  • the support structure 5 is thus inserted between the two mounting plates 7 of each guide device 3 .
  • the mounting plates 7 of the guide devices 3 are triangular in shape, with a top oriented towards the ground, at the level of which the support structure 5 is located, and a side opposite to said top oriented towards the arch 2, at the level which the rollers 4 are located.
  • Through holes made in the support structure 5 make it possible to mount the guide devices 3 mobile in rotation around their respective axes of rotation 300a, 300b.
  • the forces exerted by the hoop 2 on the guide devices 3 make it possible to drive the latter in rotation around their respective axes of rotation 300a, 300b so that the rollers 4 of each guide device 3 each come into contact of the tread 8 of the arch 2.
  • the support structure 5 is mounted on the upper part of the ground support structure 6 which is in this example an intermediate frame resting either on driven piles or on a concrete block (not shown). In a variant not shown, the support structure 5 rests directly on driven piles or a concrete block.
  • the support structure 5 can be a straight tube or bar, for example of circular section. It is preferably sufficiently rigid to support the guide devices 3 and the hoop 2.
  • the support structure 5 is fixed at each of its ends to the ground support structure 6 by clamps 9.
  • the tightening of the collars 9 is such that it allows the rotation, preferably the free rotation, of the support structure 5 around its axis of extension 400 which is perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation 100 of the arch 2.
  • the rotation of the support structure 5 around its axis of extension 400 makes it possible to compensate for the static irregularities of the ground, and in particular allows the installation of the solar tracker on a ground having a slope.
  • the ground support structure 6 can then extend vertically and the axis of rotation 100 of the hoop 2 extend parallel to the slope.
  • the collars 9 are then tightened so as to prevent the rotation of the support structure 5 around its axis of extension 400.
  • the guide devices 3 each further comprise at least two lateral stops 10 located on either side of the arch 2.
  • the lateral stops 10 are each fixed to a mounting plate 7 of the guide devices 3 and are located between the two plates 7, facing the sides 11 of the arch 2.
  • the arch 2 comprises lateral extensions 12 on either side of the arch 2 arranged between the lateral stops 10 and the rollers 4 of the guide devices 3.
  • lateral stops 10 makes it possible to avoid the lifting of the hoop 2, for example caused by the force of the wind, because the lateral extensions 12 of the hoop 2 then come to rest against the lateral stops 10 of the guidance 3.
  • the hoop 2 comprises a section having a U-shaped section.
  • the long sides of the "U” form the sides 11 of the hoop 2 and are connected to each other by the short side forming the radially outer edge which carries the tread 8 of the hoop 2.
  • the lateral extensions 12 of the arch 2 can be inserted in the extension of the radially outer edge of the arch 2, as illustrated in figure 4a , or at the level of the sides 11 of the hoop 2, as illustrated in figure 4b .
  • the lateral extensions 12 of the hoop 2 have a thickness approximately equal to that of the walls of the U-shaped profile of the hoop 2, as illustrated in figures 4a and 4b .
  • the thickness of the side extensions is between 3 and 5 mm.
  • the lateral extensions 12 have a greater thickness than that of the walls of the U-shaped section of the arch 2, as illustrated in figure 4c .
  • the thickness of the side extensions is between 5 and 20 mm.
  • the side stops 10 are immobilized on the mounting plates 7 by fixing means such as riveting or screwing.
  • the side stops 10 of each guide device 3 comprises two axial guide rollers 13 each rotatable about an axis of rotation 500a, 500b, 500c, 500d extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation 100 of the arch 2 and configured to come into contact with the sides 11 of the arch 2.
  • the axial guide rollers 13 are received in housings made in the side stops 10.
  • the axial guide wheels 13 make it possible to guide the arch 2 axially, in particular so as to keep it centered between the two lateral stops 10 of each guide device 3 and to take up the axial forces of the solar tracker, in particular when the latter is installed on a slope.
  • the axial guide rollers 13 are mounted to rotate freely.
  • the guide devices 3 are each mobile in translation along their respective axes 300a, 300b. This advantageously makes it possible to catch up with the thermal expansion of the solar tracker which can take place for example between winter and summer, and therefore to limit the forces linked to the thermal expansion of the solar tracker.
  • the guide devices 3 each comprise a rod 16 extending along the axis of rotation 300a, 300b of the device guide 3 and allowing the mounting of the guide device 3 on the support structure 5.
  • the rod 16 connects the two mounting plates 7 and is inserted into the through hole made in the support structure 5.
  • the rod 16 is surrounded by a rolling member 14, preferably metallic, for example steel or stainless steel, which comprises at each of its ends a plain bearing 15 with a collar, preferably made of composite material and/or based on polymers. , for example made of a plastic-based material.
  • This rolling member 14 allows the movement in translation along the axis 300a as well as the rotational movement of the guide device around the axis 300a.
  • the guide devices 3 are each initially mounted on the support structure 5 so as to be centered with respect to the support structure 5 with a play 17, of approximately 10 mm, on each side between the flange of the plain bearing and the internal face of the mounting plate 7 of the guide device 3.
  • This play 17 of approximately 10 mm on each side allows translational movements of the guide device 3 along the axis 300a with an amplitude of 20 mm.
  • this play 17 can be 20 mm or even 30 mm on each side so as to allow an amplitude of translational movement respectively of 40 mm or even 60 mm.
  • the support structure 21 is a rigid lattice beam comprising longitudinal members 22, 23, 24, crosspieces 25 and tie rods 26.
  • the support structure comprises three beams 22, 23, 24 which extend parallel to each other in the direction of the axis of rotation 100 of the arches 2, and a large number of crosspieces 25 distributed along the axis of rotation 100 of the hoop 2 to mechanically connect each of the three longerons in pairs.
  • the crosspieces 25 are arranged relative to the three longitudinal members 22, 23, 24 so as to form a plurality of triangles 27 parallel to each other and each contained in a plane perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation 100 of the arches 2.
  • Each arch 2 is mounted on the support structure 21 so as to drive the support structure 21 in rotation around the axis of rotation 100 of the arches 2.
  • Each arch 2 is mounted to the support structure 21 of the solar tracker 20 at least at each of its ends 28.
  • the arches 2 thus support the support structure 21 of the solar tracker 20 by themselves.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Sustainable Energy (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Photovoltaic Devices (AREA)
  • Control Of Position, Course, Altitude, Or Attitude Of Moving Bodies (AREA)
  • Traffic Control Systems (AREA)
  • Road Signs Or Road Markings (AREA)
  • Eye Examination Apparatus (AREA)
  • Helmets And Other Head Coverings (AREA)
  • Catching Or Destruction (AREA)

Abstract

Système (1) de guidage en rotation d'un suiveur solaire, comportant :- au moins un arceau (2) montable sur le suiveur solaire et mobile en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation (100),- au moins deux dispositifs de guidage (3) configurés pour guider en rotation l'arceau (2).System (1) for guiding a solar tracker in rotation, comprising:- at least one arch (2) mountable on the solar tracker and mobile in rotation around an axis of rotation (100),- at least two guide (3) configured to guide the arch (2) in rotation.

Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

La présente invention concerne de manière générale le guidage en rotation des suiveurs solaires et plus particulièrement un système de guidage en rotation d'un suiveur solaire et un suiveur solaire comportant ledit système de guidage en rotation.The present invention generally relates to the rotational guidance of solar trackers and more particularly to a rotational guidance system for a solar tracker and a solar tracker comprising said rotational guidance system.

Arrière-plan technologiqueTechnology background

EP2864719 décrit un suiveur solaire monté mobile en rotation sur un bâti et comportant un système de mise en mouvement de rotation du suiveur solaire, ledit système comportant un arceau monté sur le suiveur solaire et comprenant une crémaillère, et une vis sans fin coopérant avec la crémaillère afin de réaliser le mouvement de rotation. Un tel suiveur solaire ne comporte pas de système de guidage en rotation du suiveur solaire. EP2864719 describes a solar tracker mounted mobile in rotation on a frame and comprising a system for setting the solar tracker in rotation, said system comprising an arch mounted on the solar tracker and comprising a rack, and an endless screw cooperating with the rack in order to to perform the rotational movement. Such a solar tracker does not include a system for guiding the solar tracker in rotation.

Un guidage en rotation du suiveur solaire permet un mouvement de rotation contrôlé et précis du suiveur solaire.A rotational guidance of the solar tracker allows a controlled and precise rotational movement of the solar tracker.

On connait du document EP3501098 une autre structure de suiveur solaire comportant un dispositif mobile comportant une structure de support en treillis rigide qui s'étend longitudinalement selon l'axe de pivotement du dispositif mobile, et sur laquelle est fixée une pluralité de panneaux solaires dans un même plan. Dans un mode de réalisation préféré, la structure de support en treillis rigide est fixée uniquement aux deux arceaux qui s'étendent dans un plan perpendiculaire à l'axe de pivotement, de sorte que les deux arceaux constituent deux uniques supports pour la structure de support en treillis rigide. Chacun des deux arceaux repose en en outre sur un berceau de guidage en rotation de l'arceau correspondant, et chaque berceau de guidage est fixé en partie supérieure d'un premier appui au sol. Le poids du dispositif mobile est ainsi distribué sur seulement deux appuis au sol, via les deux arceaux de support. Avec une telle structure, on peut obtenir avantageusement des suiveurs solaires de grande dimension (typiquement une structure de support en treillis rigide présentant une longueur comprise entre 40 et 60 mètres et une largeur d'environ 5 mètres), avec seulement deux arceaux de support d'environ 2 mètres de diamètre séparés d'une distance environ égale à la moitié de la longueur de la structure de support, par exemple comprise entre 20 et 30 mètres, et deux appuis au sol. Les berceaux de guidage comportent chacun deux dispositifs de guidage comportant chacun, d'une part, des galets supérieurs, et d'autre part, des galets inférieures supportant l'arceau. Les galets supérieurs et inférieurs de chaque dispositif de guidage forment un organe de roulement et sont configurés pour rouler sur une bande de roulement portée par chaque arceau. Chaque arceau comporte sur son bord radialement externe des extensions latérales de part et d'autre de l'arceau configurées pour s'insérer entre les galets supérieurs et inférieurs de support de façon à permettre un guidage en rotation de l'arceau. Un tel guidage conduit à des phénomènes d'usure prématurée des arceaux au niveau des zones où les galets inférieurs sont en contact avec les arceaux. En effet, tout le poids du dispositif mobile et des arceaux est distribué sur les galets inférieurs ce qui génère des pressions élevées de contact entre les galets inférieurs et les arceaux.We know from the document EP3501098 another solar tracker structure comprising a mobile device comprising a rigid lattice support structure which extends longitudinally along the pivot axis of the mobile device, and on which is fixed a plurality of solar panels in the same plane. In a preferred embodiment, the rigid trellis support structure is attached only to the two hoops which extend in a plane perpendicular to the pivot axis, so that the two hoops constitute two single supports for the support structure in a rigid trellis. Each of the two hoops also rests on a cradle for guiding the corresponding hoops in rotation, and each guide cradle is fixed in the upper part of a first support on the ground. The weight of the mobile device is thus distributed over only two supports on the ground, via the two support arches. With such a structure, one can advantageously obtain large dimension solar trackers (typically a rigid lattice support structure having a length of between 40 and 60 meters and a width of approximately 5 meters), with only two support arches of approximately 2 meters in diameter separated by a distance approximately equal to half the length of the support structure , for example between 20 and 30 meters, and two supports on the ground. The guide cradles each comprise two guide devices each comprising, on the one hand, upper rollers, and on the other hand, lower rollers supporting the hoop. The upper and lower rollers of each guide device form a rolling member and are configured to roll on a tread carried by each hoop. Each hoop has on its radially outer edge lateral extensions on either side of the hoop configured to be inserted between the upper and lower support rollers so as to allow the hoop to be guided in rotation. Such guidance leads to phenomena of premature wear of the hoops in the areas where the lower rollers are in contact with the hoops. In fact, the entire weight of the mobile device and of the hoops is distributed over the lower rollers, which generates high contact pressures between the lower rollers and the hoops.

Un but de la présente invention est d'améliorer les systèmes de guidage en rotation des suiveurs solaires, notamment celui décrit dans le document EP3501098 , avec notamment pour but de mieux répartir les efforts s'exerçant sur les dispositifs de guidage et leurs galets.An object of the present invention is to improve the rotational guidance systems of solar trackers, in particular that described in the document EP3501098 , with the particular aim of better distributing the forces exerted on the guide devices and their rollers.

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

A cette fin, selon un premier aspect, la présente invention a pour objet un système de guidage en rotation d'un suiveur solaire, comportant :

  • au moins un arceau montable sur le suiveur solaire et mobile en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation,
  • au moins deux dispositifs de guidage configurés pour guider en rotation l'arceau,
    • les dispositifs de guidage comportant chacun au moins deux galets chacun mobile en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation s'étendant selon la direction de l'axe de rotation de l'arceau et configuré pour venir en contact et supporter l'arceau,
    • les dispositifs de guidage étant chacun mobile en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation s'étendant selon la direction de l'axe de rotation de l'arceau, et pouvant chacun être entrainé en rotation par l'arceau de façon à permettre le contact de chaque galet de chaque dispositif de guidage avec l'arceau.
To this end, according to a first aspect, the subject of the present invention is a rotation guidance system for a solar tracker, comprising:
  • at least one arch mountable on the solar tracker and mobile in rotation around an axis of rotation,
  • at least two guide devices configured to guide the arch in rotation,
    • the guide devices each comprising at least two rollers each movable in rotation around an axis of rotation extending in the direction of the axis of rotation of the arch and configured to come into contact and support the arch,
    • the guide devices each being rotatable around an axis of rotation extending in the direction of the axis of rotation of the hoop, and each of which can be driven in rotation by the hoop so as to allow the contact of each roller of each guide device with the hoop.

Afin de se maintenir en équilibre statique, chaque dispositif de guidage peut être mis en rotation autour de son axe de rotation par les efforts exercés par l'arceau sur les dispositifs de guidage. De tels dispositifs de guidage peuvent ainsi être qualifiés de structures hypostatiques.In order to maintain static equilibrium, each guide device can be rotated about its axis of rotation by the forces exerted by the hoop on the guide devices. Such guiding devices can thus be qualified as hypostatic structures.

L'utilisation de dispositifs de guidage qui sont eux-mêmes mobiles en rotation autour de leur axe de rotation permet de mieux répartir les efforts sur les dispositifs de guidage, notamment sur les galets des dispositifs de guidage. En d'autres termes, en raison du fait que la rotation de chaque dispositif de guidage autour de son axe de rotation est permise, le positionnement du dispositif de guidage, et notamment des galets au contact de l'arceau, est optimisé ce qui permet une pression de l'arceau qui est sensiblement uniformément répartie sur chacun des dispositifs de guidage, en particulier sur chacun des galets des dispositifs de guidage. Cela peut permettre de limiter la pression de contact de l'arceau sur les galets, et donc de limiter l'usure de l'arceau résultant du contact entre l'arceau et les galets.The use of guide devices which are themselves mobile in rotation around their axis of rotation makes it possible to better distribute the forces on the guide devices, in particular on the rollers of the guide devices. In other words, due to the fact that the rotation of each guide device around its axis of rotation is allowed, the positioning of the guide device, and in particular of the rollers in contact with the arch, is optimized which allows a pressure of the hoop which is substantially uniformly distributed over each of the guide devices, in particular over each of the rollers of the guide devices. This can make it possible to limit the contact pressure of the arch on the rollers, and therefore to limit the wear of the arch resulting from the contact between the arch and the rollers.

D'autre part, de tels dispositifs de guidage qui sont eux-mêmes mobiles en rotation autour de leur axe de rotation peuvent d'adapter aisément à différents arceaux ayant des diamètres ou des courbures différentes.On the other hand, such guide devices which are themselves mobile in rotation around their axis of rotation can easily adapt to different hoops having different diameters or curvatures.

Le fait que les dispositifs de guidage soient chacun mobile en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation s'étendant selon la direction de l'axe de rotation de l'arceau permet de maintenir au contact de l'arceau les galets de chaque dispositif de guidage.The fact that the guide devices are each mobile in rotation around an axis of rotation extending in the direction of the axis of rotation of the arch makes it possible to maintain in contact with the arch the rollers of each device of guidance.

La rotation de chaque dispositif de guidage autour de son axe de rotation permet en effet de garantir que chaque galet des dispositifs de guidage est au contact de l'arceau. Un dispositif de guidage hyperstatique, i.e. qui n'est pas mobile en rotation, ne permettrait pas l'appui de l'arceau sur chacun des galets des dispositifs de guidage.The rotation of each guide device around its axis of rotation in fact makes it possible to guarantee that each roller of the guide devices is in contact with the arch. A hyperstatic guide device, i.e. which is not mobile in rotation, would not allow the support of the arch on each of the rollers of the guide devices.

Arceauarch

L'axe de rotation de l'arceau est de préférence identique à celui du suiveur solaire.The axis of rotation of the arch is preferably identical to that of the solar tracker.

L'arceau s'étend de préférence dans un plan perpendiculaire à son axe de rotation.The hoop preferably extends in a plane perpendicular to its axis of rotation.

L'arceau peut comporter un profilé courbe, de préférence en forme de demi-cercle. Le diamètre de l'arceau peut être compris entre 1,8 et 2,5 mètres, et notamment être égal à environ 2,2 mètres.The hoop may comprise a curved section, preferably in the shape of a semicircle. The diameter of the arch can be between 1.8 and 2.5 meters, and in particular be equal to about 2.2 meters.

L'arceau peut être montable sur le suiveur solaire au moins par ses extrémités.The arch can be mounted on the solar tracker at least by its ends.

Bande de roulementTread

L'arceau peut comporter une bande de roulement et le ou les galets de chaque dispositif de guidage peuvent être configurés pour venir en contact avec la bande de roulement de l'arceau. Comme déjà mentionné précédemment, le système selon l'invention peut permettre de limiter l'usure de la bande de roulement de l'arceau résultant du contact entre les galets et la bande de roulement de l'arceau.The hoop may include a tread and the roller(s) of each guide device may be configured to come into contact with the tread of the hoop. As already mentioned previously, the system according to the invention can make it possible to limit the wear of the tread of the arch resulting from the contact between the rollers and the tread of the arch.

La rotation de chaque dispositif de guidage autour de son axe de rotation peut permettre de maintenir au contact de la bande de roulement de l'arceau le ou les galets de chaque dispositif de guidage.The rotation of each guide device around its axis of rotation can make it possible to keep the roller or rollers of each guide device in contact with the tread of the arch.

La bande de roulement est de préférence située sur un bord radialement externe de l'arceau.The tread is preferably located on a radially outer edge of the hoop.

GaletPebble

Les galets sont de préférence cylindriques.The rollers are preferably cylindrical.

Les galets peuvent présenter une forme allongée le long de leur axe de rotation. Ils peuvent présenter une largeur sensiblement égale à celle de la bande de roulement de l'arceau, par exemple une largeur comprise entre 80 et 110 mm. Une forme allongée permet d'accroître la surface de contact entre le galet et l'arceau et donc de diminuer la pression de contact de l'arceau sur le galet.The rollers may have an elongated shape along their axis of rotation. They may have a width substantially equal to that of the tread of the hoop, for example a width of between 80 and 110 mm. An elongated shape makes it possible to increase the contact surface between the roller and the arch and therefore to reduce the contact pressure of the arch on the roller.

Les galets peuvent présenter par exemple un diamètre interne compris entre 18 et 30 mm et un diamètre externe compris entre 50 et 100 mm.The rollers may for example have an internal diameter of between 18 and 30 mm and an external diameter of between 50 and 100 mm.

Les galets peuvent comporter une surface de roulement configurée pour venir en contact avec la bande de roulement de l'arceau.The rollers may include a tread surface configured to come into contact with the tread of the hoop.

Les galets peuvent être entièrement réalisés dans un matériau composite et/ou à base de polymères, par exemple un matériau à base de plastique, y compris leurs surfaces de roulement.The rollers can be made entirely of a composite material and/or based on polymers, for example a material based on plastic, including their running surfaces.

Les galets sont de préférence montés libres en rotation autour de leur axe de rotation.The rollers are preferably mounted free to rotate around their axis of rotation.

Les axes de rotation des galets de chaque dispositif de guidage sont de préférence strictement parallèles.The axes of rotation of the rollers of each guide device are preferably strictly parallel.

La distance entre les axes de rotation des galets de chaque dispositif de guidage peut être comprise entre 150 et 200 mm.The distance between the axes of rotation of the rollers of each guide device can be between 150 and 200 mm.

Dispositif de guidageGuiding device

Les dispositifs de guidage sont disposés en série le long de l'arceau.The guide devices are arranged in series along the arch.

Les dispositifs de guidage sont de préférence alignés l'un par rapport à l'autre le long de l'axe d'un axe compris dans le plan dans lequel s'étend l'arceau.The guide devices are preferably aligned relative to each other along the axis of an axis included in the plane in which the hoop extends.

La distance entre les axes de rotation des dispositifs de guidage peut être comprise entre 800 et 1000 mm.The distance between the axes of rotation of the guide devices can be between 800 and 1000 mm.

Les dispositifs de guidage sont de préférence chacun monté libre en rotation autour de leur axe de rotation.The guide devices are each preferably mounted free to rotate about their axis of rotation.

Les dispositifs de guidage peuvent être montés, de préférence au niveau de leur axe de rotation, sur une même structure de support s'étendant selon une direction perpendiculaire à la direction de l'axe de rotation de l'arceau. Cela peut permettre d'aligner les dispositifs de guidage l'un par rapport à l'autre de manière à permettre le guidage en rotation de l'arceau.The guide devices can be mounted, preferably at their axis of rotation, on the same support structure extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation of the arch. This can make it possible to align the guide devices relative to each other so as to allow the rotational guidance of the arch.

La structure de support est par exemple une barre ou un tube, de préférence rectiligne et/ou de section circulaire.The support structure is for example a bar or a tube, preferably rectilinear and/or of circular section.

La longueur de la structure de support peut être comprise entre 1000 et 1300 mm.The length of the supporting structure can be from 1000 to 1300 mm.

La structure de support peut être montable sur une partie supérieure d'une structure d'appui au sol.The support structure may be mountable to an upper portion of a ground support structure.

La structure d'appui au sol peut comporter un ou plusieurs pieux battus, forés ou vissés, notamment deux pieux battus, forés ou vissés, ou un bloc béton. En variante, elle comporte un châssis intermédiaire qui repose sur un ou plusieurs pieux battus, notamment sur deux pieux battus, ou sur un bloc béton.The ground support structure may comprise one or more driven, drilled or screwed piles, in particular two driven, drilled or screwed piles, or a concrete block. As a variant, it comprises an intermediate frame which rests on one or more driven piles, in particular on two driven piles, or on a concrete block.

La structure de support est de préférence suffisamment rigide pour supporter les efforts du suiveur solaire.The support structure is preferably sufficiently rigid to withstand the forces of the solar tracker.

Avantageusement, la structure de support est mobile en rotation autour de son axe d'extension qui est perpendiculaire à la direction de l'axe de rotation de l'arceau. La rotation de la structure de support autour de son axe d'extension peut permettre de compenser les irrégularités statiques du sol, et notamment permettre l'installation du suiveur solaire sur un sol en pente. Cela peut ainsi permettre une orientation angulaire précise du suiveur solaire autour d'un axe de rotation s'étendant dans une direction perpendiculaire à l'axe de rotation de l'arceau.Advantageously, the support structure is rotatable around its axis of extension which is perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation of the hoop. The rotation of the support structure around its axis of extension can make it possible to compensate for the static irregularities of the ground, and in particular allow the installation of the solar tracker on a sloping ground. This can thus allow precise angular orientation of the sun tracker around an axis of rotation extending in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the arch.

La structure de support peut être monté libre en rotation autour de son axe d'extension.The support structure can be mounted free to rotate around its extension axis.

Par exemple, la structure de support est fixée à chacune de ses extrémités à la structure d'appui au sol par un collier de serrage.For example, the support structure is fixed at each of its ends to the ground support structure by a clamp.

Avantageusement, le serrage du collier est tel qu'il permet à la structure de support d'être libre en rotation autour de son axe d'extension.Advantageously, the tightening of the collar is such that it allows the support structure to rotate freely about its axis of extension.

Butée latéraleLateral stop

Les dispositifs de guidage peuvent comporter chacun au moins deux butées latérales situées de part et d'autre de l'arceau et l'arceau peut comporter des extensions latérales de part et d'autre de l'arceau disposées entre les butées latérales et les galets des dispositifs de guidage.The guide devices may each comprise at least two lateral stops located on either side of the arch and the arch may comprise lateral extensions on either side of the arch arranged between the lateral stops and the rollers guiding devices.

Les extensions latérales de l'arceau sont ainsi prises en sandwich entre les butées latérales et les galets des dispositifs de guidage. La présence des butées latérales peuvent permettent d'éviter le soulèvement de l'arceau, par exemple causé par la force du vent, car les extensions latérales de l'arceau viennent alors en appui contre les butées latérales des dispositifs de guidage.The lateral extensions of the arch are thus sandwiched between the lateral stops and the rollers of the guide devices. The presence of the side stops can prevent the lifting of the arch, for example caused by the force of the wind, because the lateral extensions of the hoop then come to bear against the lateral stops of the guide devices.

Lors de la rotation de l'arceau autour de son axe de rotation, les extensions latérales de l'arceau peuvent venir glisser contre les butées latérales des dispositifs de guidage.During the rotation of the arch around its axis of rotation, the lateral extensions of the arch can come to slide against the lateral stops of the guide devices.

Les butées latérales sont de préférence dans un matériau composite et/ou à base de polymères, par exemple un matériau à base de plastique.The lateral stops are preferably made of a composite material and/or based on polymers, for example a material based on plastic.

Les butées latérales sont de préférence situées en regard des flancs de l'arceau.The lateral stops are preferably located facing the sides of the hoop.

Les extensions latérales s'étendent de préférence sur au moins plus de la moitié, notamment sur au moins plus des trois-quarts, voire sur sensiblement toute la longueur de l'arceau.The lateral extensions preferably extend over at least more than half, in particular over at least more than three-quarters, or even over substantially the entire length of the hoop.

Les extensions latérales peuvent être de faible épaisseur, par exemple comprise entre 3 et 5 mm, voire d'épaisseur plus importante, par exemple comprise entre 5 et 8 mm.The lateral extensions can be thin, for example between 3 and 5 mm, or even thicker, for example between 5 and 8 mm.

Les extensions latérales peuvent venir s'insérer dans le prolongement du bord radialement externe de l'arceau ou au niveau des flancs de l'arceau.The lateral extensions can be inserted in the extension of the radially outer edge of the hoop or at the level of the flanks of the hoop.

Les butées latérales de chaque dispositif de guidage peuvent comporter chacune au moins une roulette de guidage axial mobile en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation s'étendant selon une direction perpendiculaire à la direction de l'axe de rotation de l'arceau et configurée pour venir en contact avec les flancs de l'arceau. La présence de roulettes de guidage axial peut permettre de guider axialement l'arceau de manière à le maintenir centré entre les deux butées latérales de chaque dispositif de guidage. D'autre part, ces roulettes de guidage axial peuvent permettre de reprendre les efforts axiaux du suiveur solaire, notamment quand le suiveur solaire est installé dans une pente.The lateral stops of each guide device may each comprise at least one axial guide roller mobile in rotation around an axis of rotation extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation of the arch and configured to come into contact with the sides of the arch. The presence of axial guide rollers can make it possible to guide the arch axially so as to keep it centered between the two lateral stops of each guide device. On the other hand, these axial guide rollers can make it possible to take up the axial forces of the solar tracker, in particular when the solar tracker is installed on a slope.

Les roulettes de guidage axial des butées latérales sont de préférence montées libre en rotation.The axial guide rollers of the side stops are preferably mounted to rotate freely.

Les dispositifs de guidage peuvent être chacun mobile en translation le long de leur axe de rotation. Cela peut permettre de rattraper la dilatation thermique du suiveur solaire qui peut avoir lieu par exemple entre l'hiver et l'été. Ce mouvement de translation du dispositif de guidage permet donc de limiter les efforts liés à la dilatation thermique du suiveur solaire.The guide devices can each be movable in translation along their axis of rotation. This can make it possible to compensate for the thermal expansion of the solar tracker which can take place for example between winter and summer. This translational movement of the guiding device therefore makes it possible to limit the forces linked to the thermal expansion of the solar tracker.

Les dispositifs de guidage peuvent être chacun mobile en translation dans les deux sens par rapport à l'axe d'extension de la structure de support. Le mouvement de translation de chacun des dispositifs de guidage est de préférence guidé le long de leur axe de de rotation.The guide devices can each be movable in translation in both directions with respect to the axis of extension of the support structure. The translation movement of each of the guide devices is preferably guided along their axis of rotation.

Les dispositifs de guidage peuvent chacun comporter autour de leur axe de rotation une paire de paliers lisses, notamment à collerettes. L'utilisation de paliers lisses peut faciliter la translation et la rotation des dispositifs de guidage.The guide devices can each comprise around their axis of rotation a pair of plain bearings, in particular with collars. The use of plain bearings can facilitate the translation and rotation of the guiding devices.

Les paliers lisses sont de préférence dans un matériau composite et/ou à base de polymères, notamment dans un matériau à base de plastique. Par exemple, les paliers lisses peuvent être entièrement à base de polymères ou être en dans un matériau métallique, notamment en bronze, qui est revêtu d'une couche à base de polymères. Cela peut permettre d'éviter l'utilisation de graisse tout en assurant une stabilité mécanique élevée et un coefficient de frottement limité.The plain bearings are preferably in a composite material and/or based on polymers, in particular in a plastic-based material. For example, the plain bearings can be entirely based on polymers or be made of a metallic material, in particular bronze, which is coated with a layer based on polymers. This can make it possible to avoid the use of grease while ensuring high mechanical stability and a limited coefficient of friction.

L'amplitude du mouvement de translation de chacun des dispositifs de guidage le long de leur axe de rotation peut être comprise entre 10 et 70 mm, de préférence entre 20 et 60 mm.The amplitude of the translation movement of each of the guide devices along their axis of rotation can be between 10 and 70 mm, preferably between 20 and 60 mm.

La présente invention a encore pour objet un suiveur solaire comportant :

  • au moins un système de guidage en rotation tel que défini ci-dessus,
  • au moins une table équipée d'au moins un dispositif de collecte d'énergie solaire, la table s'étendant longitudinalement selon la direction de l'axe de rotation de l'arceau,
  • au moins une structure de soutien, notamment une poutre en treillis, s'étendant longitudinalement selon la direction de l'axe de rotation de l'arceau et supportant, notamment à elle seule, ladite table,
    l'arceau étant monté sur la structure de soutien de façon à entrainer en rotation la structure de soutien autour de l'axe de rotation de l'arceau.
The present invention also relates to a solar tracker comprising:
  • at least one rotation guidance system as defined above,
  • at least one table equipped with at least one solar energy collection device, the table extending longitudinally in the direction of the axis of rotation of the arch,
  • at least one support structure, in particular a lattice beam, extending longitudinally in the direction of the axis of rotation of the hoop and supporting, in particular by itself, said table,
    the hoop being mounted on the support structure so as to drive the support structure in rotation about the axis of rotation of the hoop.

Dans un mode de réalisation préféré, le suiveur solaire comporte au moins deux systèmes de guidage en rotation tels que définis ci-dessus et chaque arceau est monté sur la structure de soutien de façon à entrainer en rotation la structure de soutien autour de l'axe de rotation des arceaux.In a preferred embodiment, the solar tracker comprises at least two rotation guidance systems as defined above and each arch is mounted on the support structure so as to cause the support structure to rotate around the axis of rotation of the arches.

La table est de préférence équipée d'une pluralité de panneaux solaires dans un même plan.The table is preferably equipped with a plurality of solar panels in the same plane.

La structure de soutien est de préférence suffisamment rigide pour supporter la table.The support structure is preferably sufficiently rigid to support the table.

Le ou les arceaux peuvent être configurés pour supporter la structure de soutien. En d'autres termes, le ou les arceaux constituent le ou les seuls supports pour la structure de soutien.The one or more poles can be configured to support the support structure. In other words, the arch or arches constitute the only support or supports for the support structure.

Le suiveur solaire peut comporter en outre un système d'entrainement configuré pour entrainer en rotation l'arceau autour de son axe de rotation.The solar tracker may further comprise a drive system configured to drive the arch in rotation around its axis of rotation.

Lorsque le suiveur solaire comporte au moins deux systèmes de guidage en rotation, les arceaux présentent de préférence des axes de rotation identiques et sont de préférence situés dans des plans parallèles.When the solar tracker comprises at least two rotation guidance systems, the hoops preferably have identical axes of rotation and are preferably located in parallel planes.

La présente invention a encore pour objet un champ solaire comportant une pluralité de suiveurs solaires tels que définis ci-dessus.Another subject of the present invention is a solar field comprising a plurality of solar trackers as defined above.

Au moins certains suiveurs solaires peuvent être disposés parallèlement les uns aux autres, notamment selon la direction Nord/Sud.At least some solar trackers can be arranged parallel to each other, in particular in the North/South direction.

Brève description des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

L'invention pourra être mieux comprise à la lecture de la description détaillée qui va suivre, d'un exemple de mise en œuvre non limitatif de celle-ci, et à l'examen du dessin annexé, sur lequel :

  • [Fig. 1] la figure 1 représente de façon schématique un exemple de système de guidage en rotation d'un suiveur solaire selon l'invention,
  • [Fig. 2] la figure 2 représente de façon schématique et en perspective, une vue partielle d'un exemple de système de guidage en rotation d'un suiveur solaire selon l'invention,
  • [Fig. 3] la figure 3 représente de façon schématique et en perspective, une vue partielle d'un exemple de système de guidage en rotation d'un suiveur solaire selon l'invention,
  • [Fig. 4a] la figure 4a représente une coupe transversale d'un arceau coopérant avec un dispositif de guidage,
  • [Fig. 4b] la figure 4b représente une variante de l'arceau coopérant avec le dispositif de guidage représenté à la figure 4a,
  • [Fig. 4c] la figure 4c représente une autre variante de l'arceau coopérant avec le dispositif de guidage représenté à la figure 4a,
  • [Fig. 5] la figure 5 représente de façon schématique et en perspective un détail du système de guidage en rotation d'un suiveur solaire selon l'invention,
  • [Fig. 6] la figure 6 représente de façon schématique et en perspective un autre détail du système de guidage en rotation d'un suiveur solaire selon l'invention,
  • [Fig. 7] la figure 7 représente de façon schématique et en perspective un détail du système de guidage représenté à la figure 6,
  • [Fig. 8] la figure 8 représente de façon schématique, partielle et en perspective, un exemple de suiveur solaire selon l'invention.
The invention can be better understood on reading the detailed description which follows, of a non-limiting example of implementation thereof, and on examining the appended drawing, in which:
  • [ Fig. 1 ] there figure 1 schematically represents an example of a rotation guidance system for a sun tracker according to the invention,
  • [ Fig. 2 ] there figure 2 shows schematically and in perspective, a partial view of an example of a system for guiding in rotation a solar tracker according to the invention,
  • [ Fig. 3 ] there picture 3 shows schematically and in perspective, a partial view of an example of a system for guiding in rotation a solar tracker according to the invention,
  • [ Fig. 4a ] there figure 4a represents a cross section of a hoop cooperating with a guiding device,
  • [ Fig. 4b ] there figure 4b represents a variant of the hoop cooperating with the guidance device represented in figure 4a ,
  • [ Fig. 4c ] there figure 4c represents another variant of the hoop cooperating with the guide device represented in figure 4a ,
  • [ Fig. 5 ] there figure 5 shows schematically and in perspective a detail of the rotational guidance system of a sun tracker according to the invention,
  • [ Fig. 6 ] there figure 6 shows schematically and in perspective another detail of the rotational guidance system of a sun tracker according to the invention,
  • [ Fig. 7 ] there figure 7 schematically shows in perspective a detail of the guidance system shown in figure 6 ,
  • [ Fig. 8 ] there figure 8 shows schematically, partially and in perspective, an example of a solar tracker according to the invention.

Description de mode(s) de réalisationDescription of embodiment(s)

Le système 1 de guidage en rotation représenté sur la figure 1 comporte un arceau 2 montable sur un suiveur solaire (non représenté) et mobile en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation 100 et deux dispositifs de guidage 3 configurés pour guider en rotation l'arceau 2 autour de son axe de rotation 100. Ainsi, l'arceau 2 est configuré pour coopérer avec deux dispositifs de guidage 3.The rotation guidance system 1 represented on the figure 1 comprises a hoop 2 mountable on a solar tracker (not shown) and mobile in rotation around an axis of rotation 100 and two guide devices 3 configured to guide the hoop 2 in rotation around its axis of rotation 100. Thus, the hoop 2 is configured to cooperate with two guide devices 3.

Les dispositifs de guidage 3 comportent chacun au moins deux galets 4 chacun mobile en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d s'étendant selon la direction de l'axe de rotation 100 de l'arceau 2 et configuré pour venir en contact et supporter l'arceau 2.The guide devices 3 each comprise at least two rollers 4 each movable in rotation around an axis of rotation 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d extending in the direction of the axis of rotation 100 of the arch 2 and configured to come into contact with and support the arch 2.

De préférence, les galets 4 sont montés libres en rotation.Preferably, the rollers 4 are mounted free to rotate.

Les dispositifs de guidage 3 sont chacun mobile en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation 300a, 300b s'étendant selon la direction de l'axe de rotation 100 de l'arceau 2. Ainsi, chaque dispositif de guidage 3 peut être entrainé en rotation autour de son axe de rotation 300a, 300b par l'arceau 2 de façon à permettre le contact de chaque galet 4 de chaque dispositif de guidage 3 avec l'arceau 2.The guide devices 3 are each mobile in rotation about an axis of rotation 300a, 300b extending in the direction of the axis of rotation 100 of the arch 2. Thus, each guide device 3 can be driven in spin around its axis of rotation 300a, 300b by the arch 2 so as to allow the contact of each roller 4 of each guide device 3 with the arch 2.

De préférence, les dispositifs de guidage 3 sont montés libres en rotation.Preferably, the guide devices 3 are mounted free to rotate.

Les dispositifs de guidage 3 sont montés sur une même structure de support 5 s'étendant selon une direction perpendiculaire à la direction de l'axe de rotation 100 de l'arceau 2.The guide devices 3 are mounted on the same support structure 5 extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation 100 of the arch 2.

La structure de support 5 est donc configurée pour supporter les dispositifs de guidage 3 et l'arceau 2.The support structure 5 is therefore configured to support the guide devices 3 and the arch 2.

La structure de support 5 peut être montée sur une partie supérieure d'une structure d'appui au sol 6.The support structure 5 can be mounted on an upper part of a ground support structure 6.

L'arceau 2 est de préférence montable au moins à chacune de ses extrémités à l'ossature du suiveur solaire. Il peut ainsi constituer un unique support pour le suiveur solaire.The arch 2 is preferably mountable at least at each of its ends to the frame of the solar tracker. It can thus constitute a single support for the solar tracker.

L'arceau forme de préférence un arc-de-cercle, notamment un demi-cercle, dont le centre est sur l'axe de rotation 100 de l'arceau 2.The arch preferably forms an arc-of-circle, in particular a semi-circle, the center of which is on the axis of rotation 100 of the arch 2.

En référence aux figures 2 et 3, nous allons maintenant décrire plus en détails les dispositifs de guidage 3 du système 1 de guidage en rotation selon l'invention.With reference to figures 2 and 3 , we will now describe in more detail the guide devices 3 of the system 1 for guiding in rotation according to the invention.

Chaque dispositif de guidage 3 comporte deux plaques de montage 7, de préférence parallèles entre elles, situées de part et d'autre de l'arceau 2, entre lesquelles les galets 4 sont montés mobiles en rotation autour de leurs axes de rotation respectifs 200a, 200b, 200c et 200d.Each guide device 3 comprises two mounting plates 7, preferably parallel to each other, located on either side of the arch 2, between which the rollers 4 are mounted so as to be able to rotate around their respective axes of rotation 200a, 200b, 200c and 200d.

Les galets 4 sont situés au niveau de la partie supérieure des dispositifs de guidage 3.The rollers 4 are located at the level of the upper part of the guide devices 3.

Les galets 4 sont configurés pour venir au contact avec une bande de roulement 8 de l'arceau 2 qui est située sur un bord radialement externe de l'arceau 2 et pour supporter l'arceau 2. Ainsi, les galets 4 peuvent être entraînés en rotation autour de leurs axes de rotation respectifs 200a, 200b, 200c et 200d par la rotation du l'arceau 2 autour de son axe de rotation 100.The rollers 4 are configured to come into contact with a tread 8 of the arch 2 which is located on a radially outer edge of the arch 2 and to support the arch 2. Thus, the rollers 4 can be driven in rotation around their respective axes of rotation 200a, 200b, 200c and 200d by the rotation of the arch 2 around its axis of rotation 100.

La structure de support 5 sur laquelle repose les dispositifs de guidage 3 est situé au niveau de la partie inférieure des dispositifs de guidage 3. La structure de support 5 vient ainsi s'insérer entre les deux plaques de montage 7 de chaque dispositif de guidage 3.The support structure 5 on which the guide devices 3 rest is located at the level of the lower part of the guide devices 3. The support structure 5 is thus inserted between the two mounting plates 7 of each guide device 3 .

Dans l'exemple illustré à la figure 2, les plaques de montage 7 des dispositifs de guidage 3 sont de forme triangulaire, avec un sommet orienté vers le sol, au niveau duquel est situé la structure de support 5, et un côté opposé audit sommet orienté vers l'arceau 2, au niveau duquel sont situés les galets 4.In the example shown in picture 2 , the mounting plates 7 of the guide devices 3 are triangular in shape, with a top oriented towards the ground, at the level of which the support structure 5 is located, and a side opposite to said top oriented towards the arch 2, at the level which the rollers 4 are located.

Des orifices traversants ménagés dans la structure de support 5 permettent de monter les dispositifs de guidage 3 mobiles en rotation autour de leurs axes de rotation respectifs 300a, 300b.Through holes made in the support structure 5 make it possible to mount the guide devices 3 mobile in rotation around their respective axes of rotation 300a, 300b.

Les efforts exercés par l'arceau 2 sur les dispositifs de guidage 3 permettent d'entrainer ces derniers en rotation autour de leurs axes de rotation respectifs 300a, 300b de manière à ce que les galets 4 de chaque dispositif de guidage 3 viennent chacun au contact de la bande de roulement 8 de l'arceau 2.The forces exerted by the hoop 2 on the guide devices 3 make it possible to drive the latter in rotation around their respective axes of rotation 300a, 300b so that the rollers 4 of each guide device 3 each come into contact of the tread 8 of the arch 2.

Comme on peut le voir sur les figures 2 et 3, la structure de support 5 est montée sur la partie supérieure de la structure d'appui au sol 6 qui est dans cet exemple un châssis intermédiaire reposant soit sur des pieux battus, soit sur un bloc béton (non représenté). Dans une variante non représentée, la structure de support 5 repose directement sur des pieux battus ou un bloc béton.As can be seen on the figures 2 and 3 , the support structure 5 is mounted on the upper part of the ground support structure 6 which is in this example an intermediate frame resting either on driven piles or on a concrete block (not shown). In a variant not shown, the support structure 5 rests directly on driven piles or a concrete block.

La structure de support 5 peut être un tube ou une barre rectiligne, par exemple de section circulaire. Elle est de préférence suffisamment rigide pour supporter les dispositifs de guidage 3 et l'arceau 2.The support structure 5 can be a straight tube or bar, for example of circular section. It is preferably sufficiently rigid to support the guide devices 3 and the hoop 2.

La structure de support 5 est fixée à chacune de ses extrémités à la structure d'appui au sol 6 par des colliers 9 de serrage.The support structure 5 is fixed at each of its ends to the ground support structure 6 by clamps 9.

Avantageusement, au moment du montage de la structure de support 5 sur la structure d'appui au sol 6, le serrage des colliers 9 est tel qu'il permet la rotation, de préférence la rotation libre, de la structure de support 5 autour de son axe d'extension 400 qui est perpendiculaire à la direction de l'axe de rotation 100 de l'arceau 2.Advantageously, when mounting the support structure 5 on the ground support structure 6, the tightening of the collars 9 is such that it allows the rotation, preferably the free rotation, of the support structure 5 around its axis of extension 400 which is perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation 100 of the arch 2.

La rotation de la structure de support 5 autour de son axe d'extension 400 permet de compenser les irrégularités statiques du sol, et permet notamment l'installation du suiveur solaire sur un sol présentant une pente. La structure d'appui au sol 6 peut alors s'étendre verticalement et l'axe de rotation 100 de l'arceau 2 s'étendre parallèlement à la pente.The rotation of the support structure 5 around its axis of extension 400 makes it possible to compensate for the static irregularities of the ground, and in particular allows the installation of the solar tracker on a ground having a slope. The ground support structure 6 can then extend vertically and the axis of rotation 100 of the hoop 2 extend parallel to the slope.

Une fois que la structure de support 5 a pivoté autour de son axe d'extension 400 pour compenser les irrégularités statiques du sol, par exemple pour que l'axe de rotation 100 de l'arceau 2 s'étende parallèlement à la pente, les colliers 9 sont alors serrés de manière à empêcher la rotation de la structure de support 5 autour de son axe d'extension 400.Once the support structure 5 has pivoted around its axis of extension 400 to compensate for the static irregularities of the ground, for example so that the axis of rotation 100 of the arch 2 extends parallel to the slope, the collars 9 are then tightened so as to prevent the rotation of the support structure 5 around its axis of extension 400.

Comme illustré aux figures 2 et 3, les dispositifs de guidage 3 comportent en outre chacun au moins deux butées latérales 10 situées de part et d'autre de l'arceau 2. Les butées latérales 10 sont chacune fixée sur une plaque de montage 7 des dispositifs de guidage 3 et sont situées entre les deux plaques 7, en regard des flancs 11 de l'arceau 2.As shown in figures 2 and 3 , the guide devices 3 each further comprise at least two lateral stops 10 located on either side of the arch 2. The lateral stops 10 are each fixed to a mounting plate 7 of the guide devices 3 and are located between the two plates 7, facing the sides 11 of the arch 2.

L'arceau 2 comporte des extensions latérales 12 de part et d'autre de l'arceau 2 disposées entre les butées latérales 10 et les galets 4 des dispositifs de guidage 3.The arch 2 comprises lateral extensions 12 on either side of the arch 2 arranged between the lateral stops 10 and the rollers 4 of the guide devices 3.

L'utilisation de butées latérales 10 permet d'éviter le soulèvement de l'arceau 2, par exemple causé par la force du vent, car les extensions latérales 12 de l'arceau 2 viennent alors en appui contre les butées latérales 10 des dispositifs de guidage 3.The use of lateral stops 10 makes it possible to avoid the lifting of the hoop 2, for example caused by the force of the wind, because the lateral extensions 12 of the hoop 2 then come to rest against the lateral stops 10 of the guidance 3.

Sur la figure 3, on a représenté le système 1 de la figure 2 en ôtant une des plaques de montage 7 de chaque dispositif de guidage 3 de manière à mieux voir les galets 4 et les butées latérales des dispositifs de guidage 3.On the picture 3 , we have represented the system 1 of the figure 2 by removing one of the mounting plates 7 from each guide device 3 so as to better see the rollers 4 and the side stops of the guide devices 3.

Comme illustré aux figures 4a à 4c, l'arceau 2 comporte un profilé présentant une section en forme de « U ». Les grands côtés du « U » forment les flancs 11 de l'arceau 2 et sont reliés l'un à l'autre par le petit côté formant le bord radialement externe qui porte la bande de roulement 8 de l'arceau 2.As shown in figures 4a to 4c , the hoop 2 comprises a section having a U-shaped section. The long sides of the "U" form the sides 11 of the hoop 2 and are connected to each other by the short side forming the radially outer edge which carries the tread 8 of the hoop 2.

Les extensions latérales 12 de l'arceau 2 peuvent s'insérer dans le prolongement du bord radialement externe de l'arceau 2, comme illustré à la figure 4a, ou au niveau des flancs 11 de l'arceau 2, comme illustré à la figure 4b.The lateral extensions 12 of the arch 2 can be inserted in the extension of the radially outer edge of the arch 2, as illustrated in figure 4a , or at the level of the sides 11 of the hoop 2, as illustrated in figure 4b .

Les extensions latérales 12 de l'arceau 2 ont une d'épaisseur environ égale à celle des parois du profilé en forme de « U » de l'arceau 2, comme illustré aux figures 4a et 4b. Par exemple, l'épaisseur des extensions latérales est comprise entre 3 et 5 mm. En variante, les extensions latérales 12 ont une épaisseur plus importante que celle des parois du profilé en forme de « U » de l'arceau 2, comme illustré à la figure 4c. Par exemple, l'épaisseur des extensions latérales est comprise entre 5 et 20 mm.The lateral extensions 12 of the hoop 2 have a thickness approximately equal to that of the walls of the U-shaped profile of the hoop 2, as illustrated in figures 4a and 4b . For example, the thickness of the side extensions is between 3 and 5 mm. As a variant, the lateral extensions 12 have a greater thickness than that of the walls of the U-shaped section of the arch 2, as illustrated in figure 4c . For example, the thickness of the side extensions is between 5 and 20 mm.

Les butées latérales 10 sont immobilisés sur les plaques de montage 7 par des moyens de fixation tels que le rivetage ou le vissage.The side stops 10 are immobilized on the mounting plates 7 by fixing means such as riveting or screwing.

Comme illustrés aux figures 4a à 4c et à la figure 5, les butées latérales 10 de chaque dispositif de guidage 3 comporte deux roulettes de guidage 13 axial chacune mobile en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation 500a, 500b, 500c, 500d s'étendant selon une direction perpendiculaire à la direction de l'axe de rotation 100 de l'arceau 2 et configurée pour venir en contact avec les flancs 11 de l'arceau 2.As illustrated in figures 4a to 4c and at the figure 5 , the side stops 10 of each guide device 3 comprises two axial guide rollers 13 each rotatable about an axis of rotation 500a, 500b, 500c, 500d extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation 100 of the arch 2 and configured to come into contact with the sides 11 of the arch 2.

Les roulettes de guidage 13 axial sont reçues dans des logements ménagés dans les butées latérales 10.The axial guide rollers 13 are received in housings made in the side stops 10.

Les roulettes de guidage 13 axial permettent de guider axialement l'arceau 2, notamment de manière à le maintenir centré entre les deux butées latérales 10 de chaque dispositif de guidage 3 et à reprendre les efforts axiaux du suiveur solaire, en particulier lorsque ce dernier est installé dans une pente.The axial guide wheels 13 make it possible to guide the arch 2 axially, in particular so as to keep it centered between the two lateral stops 10 of each guide device 3 and to take up the axial forces of the solar tracker, in particular when the latter is installed on a slope.

De préférence, les roulettes de guidage 13 axial sont montées libre en rotation.Preferably, the axial guide rollers 13 are mounted to rotate freely.

En plus d'être mobiles en rotation autour de leurs axes respectifs 300a, 300b, les dispositifs de guidage 3 sont chacun mobile en translation le long de leurs axes respectifs 300a, 300b. Cela permet avantageusement de rattraper la dilatation thermique du suiveur solaire qui peut avoir lieu par exemple entre l'hiver et l'été, et donc de limiter les efforts liés à la dilatation thermique du suiveur solaire.In addition to being mobile in rotation around their respective axes 300a, 300b, the guide devices 3 are each mobile in translation along their respective axes 300a, 300b. This advantageously makes it possible to catch up with the thermal expansion of the solar tracker which can take place for example between winter and summer, and therefore to limit the forces linked to the thermal expansion of the solar tracker.

Comme illustré aux figures 6 et 7, les dispositifs de guidage 3 comportent chacun une tige 16 s'étendant le long l'axe de rotation 300a, 300b du dispositif de guidage 3 et permettant le montage du dispositif de guidage 3 sur la structure de support 5.As shown in figures 6 and 7 , the guide devices 3 each comprise a rod 16 extending along the axis of rotation 300a, 300b of the device guide 3 and allowing the mounting of the guide device 3 on the support structure 5.

La tige 16 relie les deux plaques de montage 7 et s'insère dans l'orifice traversant ménagé dans la structure de support 5.The rod 16 connects the two mounting plates 7 and is inserted into the through hole made in the support structure 5.

La tige 16 est entourée par un organe de roulement 14, de préférence métallique, par exemple en acier ou en inox, qui comporte à chacune de ses extrémités un palier lisse 15 à collerette, de préférence en matériau composite et/ou à base de polymères, par exemple en un matériau à base de plastique. Cet organe de roulement 14 permet le mouvement en translation le long de l'axe 300a ainsi que le mouvement en rotation du dispositif de guidage autour de l'axe 300a.The rod 16 is surrounded by a rolling member 14, preferably metallic, for example steel or stainless steel, which comprises at each of its ends a plain bearing 15 with a collar, preferably made of composite material and/or based on polymers. , for example made of a plastic-based material. This rolling member 14 allows the movement in translation along the axis 300a as well as the rotational movement of the guide device around the axis 300a.

Les dispositifs de guidage 3 sont chacun initialement monté sur la structure de support 5 de manière à être centré par rapport à la structure de support 5 avec un jeu 17, d'environ 10 mm, de chaque côté entre la collerette du palier lisse et la face interne de la plaque de montage 7 du dispositif de guidage 3.The guide devices 3 are each initially mounted on the support structure 5 so as to be centered with respect to the support structure 5 with a play 17, of approximately 10 mm, on each side between the flange of the plain bearing and the internal face of the mounting plate 7 of the guide device 3.

Ce jeu 17 d'environ 10 mm de chaque côté permet des mouvements de translation du dispositif de guidage 3 le long de l'axe 300a avec une amplitude de 20 mm. En variante ce jeu 17 peut être de 20 mm voire de 30 mm de chaque côté de manière à permettre une amplitude de mouvement de translation respectivement de 40 mm voire de 60 mm.This play 17 of approximately 10 mm on each side allows translational movements of the guide device 3 along the axis 300a with an amplitude of 20 mm. As a variant, this play 17 can be 20 mm or even 30 mm on each side so as to allow an amplitude of translational movement respectively of 40 mm or even 60 mm.

On a illustré à la figure 8, un exemple de suiveur solaire 20 comportant :

  • deux systèmes 1 de guidage en rotation selon l'invention,
  • une structure de soutien 21 s'étendant longitudinalement selon la direction de l'axe de rotation 100 des arceaux 2 et supportant, notamment à elle seule, une table (non représentée) équipée d'au moins un dispositif de collecte d'énergie solaire et s'étendant longitudinalement selon la direction de l'axe de rotation 100 de l'arceau 2.
It has been illustrated at figure 8 , an example of a solar tracker 20 comprising:
  • two systems 1 for guiding in rotation according to the invention,
  • a support structure 21 extending longitudinally in the direction of the axis of rotation 100 of the arches 2 and supporting, in particular on its own, a table (not shown) equipped with at least one solar energy collection device and extending longitudinally in the direction of the axis of rotation 100 of the hoop 2.

La structure de soutien 21 est une poutre à treillis rigide comportant des longerons 22, 23, 24, des traverses 25 et des tirants 26.The support structure 21 is a rigid lattice beam comprising longitudinal members 22, 23, 24, crosspieces 25 and tie rods 26.

Dans l'exemple illustré à la figure 8, la structure de soutien comporte trois longerons 22, 23, 24 qui s'étendent parallèlement entre eux selon la direction de l'axe de rotation 100 des arceaux 2, et un grand nombre de traverses 25 réparties le long de l'axe de rotation 100 de l'arceau 2 pour relier mécaniquement chacun des trois longerons deux à deux. Les traverses 25 sont disposés relativement aux trois longerons 22, 23, 24 de façon à former une pluralité de triangles 27 parallèles entre eux et contenu chacun dans un plan perpendiculaire à la direction de l'axe de rotation 100 des arceaux 2.In the example shown in figure 8 , the support structure comprises three beams 22, 23, 24 which extend parallel to each other in the direction of the axis of rotation 100 of the arches 2, and a large number of crosspieces 25 distributed along the axis of rotation 100 of the hoop 2 to mechanically connect each of the three longerons in pairs. The crosspieces 25 are arranged relative to the three longitudinal members 22, 23, 24 so as to form a plurality of triangles 27 parallel to each other and each contained in a plane perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation 100 of the arches 2.

Chaque arceau 2 est monté sur la structure de soutien 21 de façon à entrainer en rotation la structure de soutien 21 autour de l'axe de rotation 100 des arceaux 2.Each arch 2 is mounted on the support structure 21 so as to drive the support structure 21 in rotation around the axis of rotation 100 of the arches 2.

Chaque arceau 2 est monté à la structure de soutien 21 du suiveur solaire 20 au moins à chacune de ses extrémités 28. Les arceaux 2 supportent ainsi à eux seuls la structure de soutien 21 du suiveur solaire 20.Each arch 2 is mounted to the support structure 21 of the solar tracker 20 at least at each of its ends 28. The arches 2 thus support the support structure 21 of the solar tracker 20 by themselves.

Claims (10)

Système (1) de guidage en rotation d'un suiveur solaire, comportant : - au moins un arceau (2) montable sur le suiveur solaire et mobile en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation (100), - au moins deux dispositifs de guidage (3) configurés pour guider en rotation l'arceau (2), les dispositifs de guidage (3) comportant chacun au moins deux galets (4) chacun mobile en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d) s'étendant selon la direction de l'axe de rotation (100) de l'arceau (2) et configuré pour venir en contact et supporter l'arceau (2), les dispositifs de guidage (3) étant chacun mobile en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation (300a, 300b) s'étendant selon la direction de l'axe de rotation (100) de l'arceau (2), et pouvant chacun être entrainé en rotation par l'arceau (2) de façon à permettre le contact de chaque galet (4) de chaque dispositif de guidage (3) avec l'arceau (2). System (1) for guiding a solar tracker in rotation, comprising: - at least one arch (2) mountable on the solar tracker and mobile in rotation around an axis of rotation (100), - at least two guide devices (3) configured to guide the arch (2) in rotation, the guide devices (3) each comprising at least two rollers (4) each rotatable about an axis of rotation (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d) extending in the direction of the axis of rotation (100 ) of the arch (2) and configured to come into contact with and support the arch (2), the guide devices (3) each being movable in rotation about an axis of rotation (300a, 300b) extending in the direction of the axis of rotation (100) of the arch (2), and each being able be driven in rotation by the arch (2) so as to allow the contact of each roller (4) of each guide device (3) with the arch (2). Système de guidage selon la revendication 1, les axes de rotation (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d) des galets (4) étant strictement parallèles.Guidance system according to claim 1, the axes of rotation (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d) of the rollers (4) being strictly parallel. Système de guidage selon la revendication 1 ou 2, les dispositifs de guidage (3) étant fixés sur une même structure de support (5) s'étendant selon une direction perpendiculaire à la direction de l'axe de rotation (100) de l'arceau (2), la structure de support (5) étant notamment un tube ou une barre.Guidance system according to claim 1 or 2, the guidance devices (3) being fixed on the same support structure (5) extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation (100) of the hoop (2), the support structure (5) being in particular a tube or a bar. Système de guidage selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, les dispositifs de guidage (3) comportant chacun au moins deux butées latérales (10) situées de part et d'autre de l'arceau (2) et l'arceau (2) comportant des extensions latérales (12) de part et d'autre de l'arceau (2) disposées entre les butées latérales (10) et les galets (4) des dispositifs de guidage (3).Guidance system according to any one of the preceding claims, the guidance devices (3) each comprising at least two lateral stops (10) located on either side of the arch (2) and the arch (2) comprising lateral extensions (12) on either side of the hoop (2) arranged between the lateral stops (10) and the rollers (4) of the guide devices (3). Système de guidage selon la revendication 4, les butées latérales (10) de chaque dispositif de guidage (3) comportant chacune au moins une roulette (13) de guidage axial mobile en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation (500a, 500b, 500c, 500d) s'étendant selon une direction perpendiculaire à la direction de l'axe de rotation (100) de l'arceau (2) et configurée pour venir en contact avec les flancs (11) de l'arceau (2).Guidance system according to claim 4, the lateral stops (10) of each guidance device (3) each comprising at least one axial guidance wheel (13) movable in rotation about an axis of rotation (500a, 500b, 500c , 500d) extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation (100) of the arch (2) and configured to come into contact with the sides (11) of the arch (2). Système de guidage selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, les dispositifs de guidage (3) étant chacun mobile en translation le long de leur axe de rotation (300a, 300b).Guidance system according to any one of the preceding claims, the guidance devices (3) each being movable in translation along their axis of rotation (300a, 300b). Suiveur solaire (20) comportant : - au moins un système (1) de guidage en rotation selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 6, - au moins une table équipée d'au moins un dispositif de collecte d'énergie solaire, la table s'étendant longitudinalement selon la direction de l'axe de rotation (100) de l'arceau (2), - au moins une structure de soutien (21), notamment une poutre en treillis, s'étendant longitudinalement selon la direction de l'axe de rotation (100) de l'arceau (2) et supportant, notamment à elle seule, ladite table,
l'arceau (2) étant monté sur la structure de soutien (21) de façon à entrainer en rotation la structure de soutien (21) autour de l'axe de rotation (100) de l'arceau (2). Solar tracker (20) comprising: - at least one system (1) for guiding in rotation according to any one of claims 1 to 6, - at least one table equipped with at least one solar energy collection device, the table extending longitudinally in the direction of the axis of rotation (100) of the arch (2), - at least one support structure (21), in particular a lattice beam, extending longitudinally in the direction of the axis of rotation (100) of the arch (2) and supporting, in particular by itself, said table ,
the hoop (2) being mounted on the support structure (21) so as to drive the support structure (21) in rotation around the axis of rotation (100) of the hoop (2). Suiveur solaire selon la revendication 7, comportant au moins deux systèmes (1) de guidage en rotation selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 6, chaque arceau (2) étant monté sur la structure de soutien (21) de façon à entrainer en rotation la structure de soutien (21) autour de l'axe de rotation (100) des arceaux (2).Sun tracker according to Claim 7, comprising at least two systems (1) for guiding in rotation according to any one of Claims 1 to 6, each arch (2) being mounted on the support structure (21) so as to drive in rotation of the support structure (21) around the axis of rotation (100) of the hoops (2). Champ solaire comportant une pluralité de suiveurs solaires (20) selon la revendication 7 ou 8.A solar field comprising a plurality of solar trackers (20) according to claim 7 or 8. Champ solaire selon la revendication 9, au moins certains suiveurs solaires (20) étant disposés parallèlement les uns aux autres, notamment selon la direction Nord/Sud.Solar field according to claim 9, at least some solar trackers (20) being arranged parallel to each other, in particular in the North/South direction.
EP22204150.1A 2021-10-28 2022-10-27 System for guiding the rotation of a solar tracker Pending EP4175166A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR2111493A FR3128838B1 (en) 2021-10-28 2021-10-28 Rotation guidance system of a solar tracker

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EP4175166A1 true EP4175166A1 (en) 2023-05-03

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US (1) US20230175738A1 (en)
EP (1) EP4175166A1 (en)
CN (1) CN116054705A (en)
AU (1) AU2022259699A1 (en)
BR (1) BR102022021947A2 (en)
CA (1) CA3180030A1 (en)
FR (1) FR3128838B1 (en)

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2864719A2 (en) 2012-06-22 2015-04-29 Exosun System for effecting the rotational movement of a solar tracker and solar tracking device comprising such a system
EP3501098A1 (en) 2016-08-17 2019-06-26 Nexans Solar Technologies Solar tracker
US20200052643A1 (en) * 2018-08-08 2020-02-13 OMCO Solar, LLC Solar tracker bearing apparatus

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2864719A2 (en) 2012-06-22 2015-04-29 Exosun System for effecting the rotational movement of a solar tracker and solar tracking device comprising such a system
EP3501098A1 (en) 2016-08-17 2019-06-26 Nexans Solar Technologies Solar tracker
US20200052643A1 (en) * 2018-08-08 2020-02-13 OMCO Solar, LLC Solar tracker bearing apparatus

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AU2022259699A1 (en) 2023-05-18
CN116054705A (en) 2023-05-02
BR102022021947A2 (en) 2023-11-21
FR3128838A1 (en) 2023-05-05
FR3128838B1 (en) 2024-02-02
CA3180030A1 (en) 2023-04-28
US20230175738A1 (en) 2023-06-08

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